Editor:

I am not an economist, but I am a consumer of goods and services on a fixed income. While I remain part of the workforce for the near future, I do not see an increase in income sources, but do expect a reduction of the power of my monetary assets.

I have always given grace for the first six months of any presidency — no matter the political affiliation. I will do the same during this presidency.

However, unlike other past administrations, I have decided that I will only purchase goods and services that I “need” (food, fuel, maintenance, insurance, medical, etc.) or by force (property, sales, fuel taxes, etc.).

I will pause those purchases that fall into the “want” category. This includes any large-dollar purchases that will create new debt. I will pause any monetary gifts to nonprofits, but will still donate clothing, shoes, and household items for our Evanston women’s shelter.

Supporting local business will continue but to a lesser extent. I have shared this plan with my family and encouraged them to develop a plan that makes sense for them. I understand my actions and those who take similar actions will contribute to the failure of some small businesses. Our local, state, and federal representatives have abandoned their responsibilities long ago. But clearly understand this — we allowed it!

Wyoming has no state income tax and under 600,000 residents. Yet the residents still somehow expect to maintain a similar standard of living as other large population states. Our state receives more federal funds than it contributes.

Our friends in Cheyenne would differ with my analysis but I suggest you follow the money to reach your own conclusion. Or, better yet, measure the closure of vital programs that Wyomingites rely on.

It will be interesting to see how Wyoming representatives compensate for potential federal funding cuts from Washington, D.C. The state actively participates in various sectors, including energy, mining, tourism, and agriculture. For example, the loss of employment and tourism revenue from operating the federal parks.

The Federal Farm Bill and related agricultural subsidies are under scrutiny, with some funds frozen or cut, burdening the agriculture community. Will we continue to receive significant royalties from mineral extraction on federal lands?

A significant amount of funding for Wyoming’s health care services comes from federal government pass-through funds. Even with federal financial assistance, our health care system is substandard. (Thank goodness that our neighboring states have better.)

Our ability to sustain the current living standard is unlikely. Inflation rates have and will continue to increase, devouring a greater portion of our financial assets. This will result in us spending more money for less products and services.

Our property taxes are rising and, despite current state legislation aimed at curbing this growth, the ability to sustain county and town services will decline due to tax reduction measures and inflation.

The tariffs will also alter the cost and availability of products and services. (The negative impact on international trade and aid partners by this administration is significant, with costs yet to be fully determined.)

With the increased commercial development in southwest Wyoming comes the increase in the price of competitive services from the trades.

The result of the situation is that my family’s and local community’s financial health will be impaired and, thus, will receive my priority.

David M. Slaughter

Evanston